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Dog man banned for life

9/ 5/2008

A NORTH Manchester man has been banned from keeping animals for life after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his dog.

Black labrador Bruno was infested with fleas and so much of his hair had fallen out because of a severe skin condition that RSPCA officers said it was difficult to tell what breed he was.

Owner John Howard, of Bowfield Walk, Newton Heath, admitted failing to provide veterinary care when he appeared at Manchester Magistrates Court.

Howard, 47, was also sentenced to 120 hours of community service, and ordered to pay £400 costs.

RSPCA inspector Paul Heaton said: "Bruno was in a shocking state when I first saw him. His skin was like an elephant’s, and most of his hair had fallen out.

"He was so unwell he had to be carried out of Mr Howard’s house to my van to be taken to the vets, who confirmed he was suffering."

The vet testified that Bruno had a severe flea infestation and infection that had most likely caused him to suffer for around four weeks.

In mitigation the court heard that Howard agreed he should have acted, and felt embarrassed about the situation. He signed Bruno over to the RSPCA at the time, and pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

Howard will be allowed to keep his tropical fish.

Inspector Paul Heaton said: "Owners have a legal responsibility to provide for all of their pet’s needs, and sadly, Mr Howard failed in this respect.

"I’m very pleased with the sentence passed by magistrates, and hope it’ll prevent any further animals from suffering, which is always the primary aim of the RSPCA."

Bruno is now fully recovered and available for re-homing from Warrington Animal Home.